Pwojè 12 Desanm
To commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the arrival of the first 65 "Boat People" in South Florida, we launch "Pwojè 12 Desanm” (The December 12 Project)—a yearlong tribute to the sacrifices of Haitian "Boat People" and celebration of their legacy.
Pwoje 12 Desanm was launched at the Little Haiti Cultural Complex on December 12, 2022. Browse the program book to learn more about the celebration. Re-live the night and scroll through the evening’s photos.
A 50-Year Journey of Haitian Refugees in South Florida
MIAMI, FLORIDA — To commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the first arrival of Haitian "Boat People” in South Florida, local community stakeholders have joined to launch — Pwojè 12 Desanm (The December 12 Project). This is a yearlong tribute to the sacrifices of the Haitian “Boat People” and a celebration of their legacy.
December 12, 1972, marks the first reported US landing of a boat full of Haitian refugees fleeing Haiti by sea. While more than 55,000 Haitian asylum seekers were intercepted by authorities, it is estimated that over 100,000 migrants made it to shore.
This anniversary marks the beginning of an incredible journey that has transformed South Florida’s social, cultural and political landscapes. The arrival of Haitian refugees by boat was followed by history-making events that have impacted federal jurisprudence as well as local advocacy efforts for immigrant justice. The Haitian “Boat People'' predominately settled in what is now called Miami-Dade County’s Northeast Corridor, which includes Little Haiti, Miami Shores, North Miami and North Miami Beach. An important number also moved South to the farmlands of Homestead and Florida City.
Launching on December 12, 2022, Pwojè 12 Desanm will feature a series of events uplifting the voices and stories of Haitian “Boat People” and those who channeled their courage to flee Haiti in search of safety in the United States. Pwojè 12 Desanm will close the year on December 12, 2023.
Historical images of the Haitian “Boat People”, U.S. Coast Guard, Krome Detention Center and Haitian Refugee Center.
Commemorative Events
Events Gallery
Click on the image below to be redirected to its gallery or video.
Pwoje 12 Desanm Closing Ceremony
AgendaCon 2023
Women Pioneer
Male Pioneers
Chemin Viktwa Series
A conversation with Legal Stategists, Haitian-led Organizations and more: Watch the Replay
Children’s Heritage Day
Sant La’s Legacy Gala
Women Empowerment Brunch
Eritaj Musical
SHIP Commemorative Serivce
Haiti Earthquake Vigil
Pwoje 12 Desanm Launch